Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot

### Instructions: How to Make Crock Pot Pepper Steak

#### Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Start by slicing your **flank steak** or **sirloin** into thin strips. This helps the beef cook quickly and absorb the delicious flavors from the sauce. Season the beef with a pinch of **salt** and **pepper**.

#### Step 2: Layer the Ingredients in the Crock Pot
Place the sliced beef into the base of your **crock pot**. Then, layer the **sliced onions** and **bell peppers** on top of the beef. Add the minced **garlic** for an aromatic boost to the flavor profile.

#### Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the **soy sauce**, **beef broth**, **oyster sauce** (if using), **brown sugar**, **ground ginger**, and **garlic powder**. This sauce will bring together all the savory, sweet, and slightly tangy flavors that will infuse the beef and vegetables as they cook.

Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the beef and vegetables in the crock pot. Stir gently to combine everything so that the beef and vegetables are coated with the sauce.

#### Step 4: Slow Cook the Pepper Steak
Cover the crock pot and cook on **low heat** for **6-8 hours** or **high heat** for **3-4 hours**. The slow cooking process will allow the beef to become tender, and the flavors will meld together perfectly. Check the beef for tenderness after the recommended cooking time— it should easily shred with a fork when fully cooked.

#### Step 5: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
If you prefer a thicker sauce for your **Pepper Steak**, you can use **cornstarch** to thicken it. Mix **1 tablespoon of cornstarch** with **2 tablespoons of water** to create a slurry. Once the cooking time is complete, stir the cornstarch mixture into the crock pot and cook on high for an additional **10-15 minutes**, or until the sauce thickens.

#### Step 6: Serve
Once your **Pepper Steak** is ready, serve it over a bed of **steamed rice** or **mashed potatoes** for a hearty, comforting meal. Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped green onions for a pop of color and flavor.

### Tips for Perfect Crock Pot Pepper Steak

– **Cut the Beef Thin**: Slicing the beef into thin strips ensures that it cooks quickly and becomes tender. Thin cuts also allow the meat to absorb the flavors of the sauce more effectively.

– **Add Extra Veggies**: If you want to boost the nutritional value of the dish, feel free to add more vegetables like **mushrooms**, **carrots**, or **zucchini**. These will complement the bell peppers and add additional texture to the dish.

– **Adjust the Spice Level**: For a spicier version, add a finely chopped **jalapeño pepper** or a dash of **red pepper flakes** to the sauce for extra heat.

– **Use Low-Sodium Soy Sauce**: If you’re watching your sodium intake, opt for **low-sodium soy sauce** to control the salt content in the recipe without sacrificing flavor.

– **Make It Ahead**: This dish is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare it ahead of time and store the cooked pepper steak in the refrigerator for up to **3 days**. It also freezes well for **up to 3 months**, making it great for future meals.

### Why Crock Pot Pepper Steak is Perfect for Any Occasion

**Crock Pot Pepper Steak** is the ultimate comfort food with a twist. It’s a dish that is both hearty and flavorful, making it ideal for busy weeknights or as a make-ahead dinner for busy weekends. The slow cooking method ensures that every bite of beef is tender and flavorful, while the vegetables add a burst of color and nutrition.

This recipe is perfect for family meals, but it’s also versatile enough for entertaining. Whether served with a side of rice or mashed potatoes, or even wrapped in tortillas for a taco-style meal, **Crock Pot Pepper Steak** is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen.

### Conclusion: A Simple, Flavorful Meal

**Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot** is an easy, no-fuss meal that delivers big on flavor. With tender beef, savory sauce, and fresh bell peppers, it’s the kind of dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, the slow-cooking method allows the flavors to meld together, creating a rich, satisfying meal with minimal effort.

So, the next time you need a simple yet delicious dinner, reach for your crock pot and make this irresistible **Pepper Steak** recipe. It’s a guaranteed winner for any occasion!